IMS is an architecture for multimedia delivery that enables multimedia sessions between fixed or wireless devices using IP infrastructure. It offers a common platform for efficient development and can be used for video teleconferencing, messaging, web browsing, multi-user gaming, VoIP, and video streaming. IMS was first created by 3G.IP in 1999 and later adopted by the 3G Partnership Project. It is divided into three layers: transport, control, and application. The complex multimedia is handled with SIP and other Internet protocols.
The IP Multimedia Subsystem, also known by the acronym IMS, is an architecture for multimedia delivery. Originally designed for mobile phones, it can enable multimedia sessions between fixed or wireless telecommunication devices. It also uses Internet Protocol (IP) infrastructure to carry multimedia data to and from connected devices. IMS can be used by service providers to enable video teleconferencing, messaging and web browsing for all their subscribers. It can also be used to provide multi-user gaming, Voice over IP (VoIP) and video streaming.
In 1999, a telecommunications industry group called 3G.IP created the first IP multimedia subsystem specification. It was later adopted by the Third Generation (3G) Partnership Project as part of their 3G wireless phone standard. Its focus was the provision of Internet services through General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) technology. Several features were added to IMS and released in 3G Partnership Project (3GPP) releases in the 2000s. These included centralization of services, connection to fixed broadband devices, and support for non-GPRS networks.
A rich communications suite is provided by the IP multimedia subsystem for both service providers and end users. It offers a common, reusable platform for efficient development with open standards. It can also conserve network bandwidth to provide high quality service. Providers can use IMS to deliver and charge for distributed interactive applications and real-time services. At the same time, users can enjoy seamless text, voice and video regardless of their location or the device used.
The complex multimedia enabled by IMS can require multiple sessions of multiple applications to be active at the same time. The IP media subsystem handles them with Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) and other Internet protocols. Controlling connections, sessions, and services with common Internet protocols simplifies signaling and software development. It also increases compatibility and cooperation as all providers use a proven standard communication structure.
To facilitate the smooth interaction of many types of applications and devices, the IP multimedia subsystem is divided into three layers. The transport layer handles all communication with devices such as computers, 3G phones, and personal digital assistants (PDAs). It also interfaces with SIP mobile phones and traditional landline phones, dialing packets from analog and digital data as needed. Session initiation and reporting is also done from this layer.
The IP media subsystem control layer manages the movement of packets between the transport layer and the application layer. It also manages calls, service costs and all user profiles. The presence server, critical for push-to-talk and other services, is also located in the control layer. The application layer insulates application servers from user devices and network control issues. Many servers are supported in this tier, allowing IMS to handle different types of applications and users simultaneously.
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